Vale.Rocks
Vale.Rocks
Declan Chidlow
Long-form writings spanning an assortment of topics, though oft technical in nature.
Latest Posts
We're losing vital AI history as properitary, hosted models like the original ChatGPT are retired and become completely inaccessible. This essay examines the rapid disappearance of proprietary AI systems, why preservation matters for...
Discussion of why respecting user preferences is satisfying, covering how respecting user autonomy, embracing diversity, solving dual-nature problems, practicing quality craftsmanship, and seeing visible impact creates fulfilling work...
A collection of strong opinions on URL design and structure covering topics including use of capitalisation, use of IDs, spaces, hyphens instead of underscores, trailing slashes, hierarchy, and other gripes and particulars I hold.
AI language models are shaping technology adoption in software development through training data limitations and system prompt biases. This analysis examines how AI assistants' preferences for established frameworks like React and...
A guide wrapper about how to bring old Kindles, such as the Kindle Keyboard, as well as the Kindle 4, and Kindle 5 up to speed a bit to be usable in the modern era. Covering screensaver hacks, improved font handling, and more...
A collection of my favourite words (as defined by their extreme specificity, enjoyment to say, and overall zaniness) presented with definitions and in some cases their etymologies and my justification for inclusion.
A description and look at the productive trance that is the flow state (AKA zen state). An attempt at capturing in words the essence of complete cognitive immersion and the enthralling rush it brings.
My experience getting an xG3 bio-magnet implanted in my hand. Covering the implantation, healing, and my newfound abilities.
A breakdown and overview of the implementation of Vale.Rocks, how it used to be built, how it's built now, and its associated infrastructure.
A breakdown of the reasoning behind my reviews with particular emphasis on the five-point and binary rating systems and why I dislike them yet go along anyway.
A page for testing and trialing formatting, features, and typography by seeing how they interact in complex arrangements to catch edge cases at scale.
A look at putting iframes to use for seamlessly displaying content and implementing micro-frontends.
Details of the tools, software, and hardware powering my workflow. Information on my setup, development environment, self-hosting, and multimedia management. Collates most of what I use on my laptop, servers, and phone.
My review of the Flipper Zero and the things I've done with it. Encompassing everything from the initial purchase to setup and usage, as well as the community and some cool projects.
Starting with an overview of existing image formats, including JPEG, PNG, and GIF, a look into the very promising JPEG XL and why it hasn't seen the adoption it deserves as an innovative new file format in the web landscape.